June 2026 Backyard Bulletin

Cover photo by Bridger Layton

View the full edition at this link.

In the weeks leading up to the solstice, I can almost feel myself climbing the line graph of increasing daylight hours until at last I find myself standing atop the summit. I arrive at the longest day of the year the way a mountain climber might: feeling the endorphins of the climb, but a bit delirious. Cup full from the annual journey through trees leafing out, wildflowers blooming, spring gardens growing, snow melting, and high elevation forests turning from evergreen to really, really green. Yet, somewhat exhausted from the absence of the regular cues to rest. Infinite light and not-too-hot is sort of like climate caffeine. Go, go, go! But as we begin our descent into the deep heat of summer, I'm reminded to slow down just a little. I'm reminded that a long, shady rest by the river is, in fact, one of the highest and best uses of my time. See you on the banks of the Methow!

-Bridger Layton, Education Programs Manager